Tourists flock to Nakhon Panom to view boat procession

BANGKOK, October 5 (TNA) - Local tourists and foreigners are now gathering in Nakhon Phanom province of Thailand, bordering Laos, to view an annual illuminated boat procession, organized to mark the end of the Buddhist Lent. Nakhon Phanom governor Adisak Thep-art said the nine-day traditional festival, which began on October 1, has already attracted tourists to view the grandeur of the illuminated boat procession along the mighty Mekong River. One illuminated boat, decorated with bright lamps, will be released into the river every night during the festival. The highlight of the festival is the competition of the illuminated boat processions on Wednesday’s night, which marks the end of the Buddhist Lent. As many as 16 illuminated boats will join the competition. Traditional shows, performed by seven ethnic groups living in the province and the local product fair are parts of the event, held along the bank of the river. This year, the province has also organized light and sound performances on the floating stage on the river. The shows will enable tourists to learn more about the history of the province. (TNA)